Bach and Lantz at ESU

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* in East Stroudsburg, PA presented their Music Department’s Spring Choral Concert on Wednesday April 30th featuring the world premiere of a new work by David Lantz III* entitled, “When You Are Dead and Gone” and “Magnificat” by J. S. Bach in The ESU* Cecilia S. Cohen Recital Hall of The Fine and Performing Arts Center. The Concert Choir, A Cappella Ensemble, and Orchestra consisted of University Students and members of the local community and was conducted by Prof. James Maroney.

The evening began with a variety of selections sung by the A Cappella Ensemble whose blend of voices added a depth to each piece making the emotions embodied in them understandable even though the language in which some of them were written were not. The evening continued with David Lantz III’s work whose haunting melodies were accompanied by the Concert Choir and an Orchestra. “When You Are Dead and Gone” touched each soul as it explored the ever too relevant issues relating to our neglect and abuse of the environment. It served as an ample warning to what may occur if our behaviors do not cease, but the work leave one with a sense of hope as each member of the audience begins to search within him or herself how they can improve the state of our environmental affairs. The evening concluded with the concert Choir and the Orchestra’s performance of J. S. Bach’s “Magnificat” whose blends of voices and musical instruments honored the classical nature of the work bringing a pleasing and satisfying conclusion to the overall performances.

Anna H. Busteed, Francesca Garrard*, Arline M. Smeltz*, Brian Foley*, Karen Schwander, and Christopher Palardy were among those who lent their talented voices to the concert while Laura Goss* of the Pocono Arts Council* was one of the many musicians who enhanced the experience. The vast audience included Helen Heeren*, Jim Hannan*, Bob Durough*, David Lantz III*, and Vicki Doney*. The next presentation by The ESU* Music Department will be The 21st Annual Band Concert entitled, “Classics to Modern” on Sunday May 4th at 7pm. Please Contact The ESU* Music Department at 570-422-3483 or explore their website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Bach and Lantz at ESU Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.